Getty Images reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this image or clip. If you violate our intellectual property you may be liable for: actual damages, loss of income, and profits you derive from the use of this image or clip, and, where appropriate, the costs of collection and/or statutory damages up to $150,000 (USD).

photo 1 of 200

LOS ANGELES - AUGUST 01: Ryan Bader works out for the media during the UFC on FOX open workouts at the J.W. Marriott on August 1, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Ryan Bader

TRAINING: In the morning I usually do some boxing pad work / technique for an hour and then get in some cardio, whether sprints or on the bike. Then it’s back that afternoon for some sparring. We will do some rounds fully padded with headgear, big gloves, etc, then go down to small gloves for some more MMA work. Then we usually get some instruction from our head coach and work on some different things while we do jiu-jitsu.When and why did you start training for fighting? I was a two-time Division I All American and a three-time Pac 10 champion in wrestling at Arizona State University. After graduating I pursued a career in business, I immediately missed competition and the ups and downs of being an athlete. I helped out a friend prepare for a fight and fell in love with the sport. I began training with my wrestling partner and good friend CB Dollaway at Arizona Combat Sports and really enjoyed getting back into the competitive nature. I had my first fight and that just reassured me that this is what I wanted to do.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Fighting in the UFC is my ultimate goal. It is the major league of MMA and I have worked hard throughout my amateur wrestling career and my MMA career to get where I am at today. I grew up watching the UFC and couldn’t be happier to have this opportunity with the UFC.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I graduated from Arizona State University, with a BS in Justice & Social Inquiry and minor in Business.

What was your job before you started fighting? I was in sales and marketing for a Telecommunication company.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? 2X Div I All American, 3X Pac 10 Champion, 2X high school state champion, 2001 Nevada defensive player of the year/football.

Getty Images reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this image or clip. If you violate our intellectual property you may be liable for: actual damages, loss of income, and profits you derive from the use of this image or clip, and, where appropriate, the costs of collection and/or statutory damages up to $150,000 (USD).